
Start your engines... —
The 2014 Formula One season begins in Australia on March 16. Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton has enjoyed a productive preseason, topping the timesheets on the final day of the closing test event in Bahrain.

Teething problems —
A raft of regulation changes have been introduced for 2014, including the return of turbo-powered engines. Renault's engines completed the fewest laps during preseason, meaning it was a frustrating series of tests for Red Bull and quadruple world champion Sebastian Vettel.

The ugliest F1 cars ever? —
The 2014 F1 cars feature one controversial modification. This year they sport droopy, "anteater" noses, and have been branded the ugliest in the sport's history.

A winning Williams? —
Williams struggled last year but hopes are high for the nine-time world champion after an impressive preseason, led by new signing Felipe Massa. The former Ferrari driver recorded the fastest lap time at the final test in Bahrain.

Ferrari's dream team? —
Ferrari enters the 2014 season with a formidable pairing of two-time world champion Fernando Alonso and the returning Kimi Raikkonen -- the last driver to win the title for the Italian manufacturer back in 2007.

Rookies raring to go —
Three rookies will line up in Melbourne. Denmark's Kevin Magnussen (pictured) debuts for McLaren while Sweden's Marcus Ericsson makes his bow at Caterham and Russian Daniil Kvyat comes in at Toro Rosso.

All change —
Changes have also taken place off the grid, with Eric Boullier (pictured) leaving Lotus to become race director at McLaren, which is yet to replace team principal Martin Whitmarsh.

Double your money —
The final race of 2014 has more at stake than ever, with double points on offer in Abu Dhabi. Whoever takes the checkered flag at the Yas Marina Circuit will pocket a potentially title-winning 50 points.